Quantum Computing Is Finally Here. But What Is It?

Four decades ago, physicists were theorizing that the mind-bending mechanics of quantum physics could be harnessed to make a new kind of computer that’s exponentially more powerful than conventional machines. A series of breakthroughs has now brought “quantum utility” closer to reality. A race is on to develop machines that are accurate enough to faithfully model the behavior of complex real-world phenomena and deliver a leap forward in fields as varied as drug development, financial modeling an